What computer should I buy?

While there isn’t a “one size fits all” answer, the following specifications are suitable for typical home and office use.

If you prefer we can order a desktop or laptop direct from the manufacturer on your behalf. These computers include a 3 year warranty and we can also install and setup if necessary. Please contact us for more information.

The short version

Processor

Intel: i5 or i7, the model number should include “14” to indidate it is a 14th generation chip

or

AMD: Ryzen 5 or Ryzen 7, model number should start with a 7 or greater

Memory – 16 gigabytes (GB) of RAM

Disk drive/space – Solid state drive, 500 gigabytes capacity

Monitor / Laptop screen – Resolution of 1920×1080 or greater, consider a higher number to fit more content on the screen

Warranty / Support – 3 year manufacturer warranty with onsite support; this means that parts are replaced by a certified technician that comes to you. Consider adding Accidental Damage protection for laptops to procect against spills and drops. This warranty should come directly from the manufacturer and not a third party.

The long version

Processor: Intel i5, i7 or Ultra Series
The Core i3 is not recommended. The Core i7 and Ultra series are usually overkill for typical home and business use but are certainly acceptable. Avoid all other Intel processors.

Look at the model number of the i5 or i7 – it should include a 14 to indicate that it is a 14th generation chip.

An example of a recommended Intel processor would be “i5-12400”. A non-recommended processor would be: Celeron J4005 or Pentium.

Memory (also called RAM) recommendation: 16 gigabytes (GB) or more

Memory/RAM is not how much data the computer can store – that is the hard drive which is covered in the next section.

Hard drive/storage recommendation: Solid state,500 gigabyte (GB) or more

A “solid state” (or SSD) hard drive provides the best performance. Budget computers will have a mechanical drive rahter than solid state and should be avoided.

Look for “solid state”, “solid state drive” or “SSD” that is 500 gB or larger.

An example of a non-recommended hard drive would be: 3.5″ 1TB 7200 RPM drive.

Windows and Office
If you are purchasing a computer for office or business use and you are using a server you might need to purchase the Professional edition of Windows.

Many retail and less-expensive PCs will come with the Standard version of Windows rather than Professional.

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) is not included with Windows. We recommend purchasing Office by subscribing to Office 365.

Conclusion

These specifications will help you pick out a machine that should last for many years.Please contact us if you would like a quote on a computer or laptop for your business.

These specifications within this article were last updated on February 22, 2025.